A family photographed together in coordinated pale blue and khaki
What to Wear

What to Wear for Your Family Session

It's the question we hear before nearly every session: "What should we wear?" Good news — you don't need to buy anything new or color-match like a catalog. A few simple guidelines will make everyone look pulled-together and timeless.

1. Start with one outfit, then build around it

Pick the hardest person to dress first — usually a teen or a particular parent — and choose everyone else's clothes to complement that look. Trying to coordinate from scratch for five people at once is how outfit stress begins.

2. Coordinate, don't match

Matching everyone in white shirts and jeans can look dated. Instead, choose a palette of two or three colors plus a neutral, and let each person wear a different piece of it. You'll look connected without looking like a uniform.

Think "same family, different outfits" — not "same outfit, different sizes."

3. Lean into soft, timeless colors

These photographs will hang on your wall for years, so favor tones that won't feel dated. Our go-to palettes:

Save the bright neon and large logos for another day — they pull the eye away from faces.

4. Add layers and texture

Cardigans, scarves, hats, denim jackets, and knits add depth and interest, especially in photos. Texture reads beautifully on camera and gives little hands something to do.

5. Dress for the season and the setting

Flowy fabrics move gorgeously in an outdoor fall field; cozy layers suit a winter studio. If we're shooting outside, comfortable shoes for walking are your friend.

A quick checklist

Still not sure? Send us a photo of your outfits before the session — we're always happy to help you choose.

Ready to plan your session?

We'll help with outfits, location, and everything else.

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